CASE actively improves the lives of hundreds

Dedicated to enhancing the lives of those with learning disabilities, CASE Training was originally founded in 1985. A group of parents and carers felt that there was a lack of appropriate provision for those who lived with learning disabilities and had the desire and the capacity to improve their opportunities.

“We have helped hundreds of people across Hull and the East Riding to develop independent life skills that we often take for granted,” explains Steve Rusling, CASE Marketing Manager. “Things like making a cup of tea or a round of toast; this is something that perhaps their parents will do, but there may come a time when their mums and dads might not be around to care for them,”

In the past three decades, CASE has evolved and grown to employ over 30 people and 12 volunteers, who together help 130 families. The organisation was first known as the Charter House Association for Supported Employment, changing to CASE in 1998.

The CASE centre is located on Charles Street off Freetown Way and provides a wide range of services and support to adults (aged sixteen and above) with mild to moderate learning disabilities.

Each course, workshop and programme that CASE offers is underpinned by the aim to advance their clients’ lives. This is achieved by assisting them in growing as individuals, expanding their independence, and teaching new talents to that they can actively contribute to and integrate into the community.

Skills such as literacy, numeracy and other topics can be chosen, depending on the individual’s interest in them. Clients can benefit from craft and practical workshops, gardening and horticulture classes, personal development groups, employment sessions, sports activities and independent living programmes.

On Wednesday 6 and Thursday 7 June, CASE is running its annual pop-up restaurant. This is where CASE trainees will cook alongside nationally-renowned chef Colin McGurran from Winteringham Fields.

“The food is excellent, making it a high-quality fine dining experience. The event is also a brilliant chance for our clients to enhance their employability in the catering industry,” Steve enthuses. “The night consists of a five-course meal and it is a truly wonderful evening. This is our fourth year now and it goes from strength to strength every time.”

Tickets for An Evening with Colin McGurran can be purchased on the CASE website.

The charity is also keen to attract new volunteers that can help to better their service for clients:

“We’re always looking out for new faces to help out. If people are interested, they should head to our website and fill out our form. From here, we can then find out where you can fit into CASE and how your skills can benefit our service,” says Steve. “We’re always desperate for volunteers for our shop on Hessle Road, too.”

If you would like to find out more about the charity and their volunteer opportunities, please visit the CASE website.